Original raw meatballs are made by cooking thin bulgur for meatballs and lean ground meat for raw meatballs by kneading them with plenty of spices. It is possible to achieve a taste very close to this in your home. Vegetarian raw meatballs are actually a spicy bulgur meatball. A delicious starter for almost any table. Moreover, it is very practical and fast without kneading for hours, Bon appetit!
Put the bulgur in a deep mixing bowl, add salt and pour the warm broth on it to wet it all over. Cover with cling film and rest for 10-15 minutes until the bulgur swells.
Peel the onions and garlic and process them in a food processor until fine.
Add the swollen bulgur, tomato paste and spices to the robot and start pulling. Mix the ingredients with the help of a spatula, stopping occasionally.
Add olive oil, pomegranate syrup and lemon juice at the last stage and mix for 1 more turn.
On the other hand, finely chop the outer leaves of the curly lettuce and add to the mixture. Check the salt and spices and adjust to your taste.
Arrange the lettuce core leaves on a wide serving plate. Divide your raw meatballs, which you have formed into meatballs by squeezing with your hand, on lettuce leaves and drizzle with olive oil and pomegranate syrup. If desired, you can serve cold with lemon slices, greens, rosemary and gherkin pickles. Enjoy your meal!
Keep in mind: You can click on each ingredient to find other recipes that use that ingredient.
Fine Bulgur:
Fine bulgur, a versatile whole grain derived from wheat, is packed with fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals. Its low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar, promotes digestive health, and provides sustained satiety. Ideal for dishes like kısır, çiğ köfte, and lentil patties, it pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs, tomato paste, and pomegranate molasses.
Isot:
İsot is a distinctive dark, dried, and fermented red pepper flake from Şanlıurfa, Turkey. Rich in capsaicin, it boosts metabolism, offers pain relief, and provides antioxidant support. It also contains valuable Vitamin C and beta-carotene, aiding digestion and strengthening immunity. Its intense, slightly smoky flavor makes it ideal for kebabs, çiğ köfte, soups, salads, and olive oil dishes, enriching culinary experiences.
Meat Broth:
Bone Broth is a nutritious liquid obtained by simmering bones and meat for a long time. Its rich collagen content supports joint health, improves skin elasticity, and helps strengthen the gut barrier. It is also rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium. It adds depth to soups and enhances flavor in rice dishes and sauces. Beneficial during recovery processes and for supporting the immune system.
Dry Onion:
Dry onion is a kitchen staple and a powerful antioxidant source. Its quercetin content helps protect the body against free radicals, reduces inflammation, and may support heart health. Rich in Vitamins C and B6, and manganese, it strengthens the immune system. Its prebiotic fibers contribute to digestive health. It is widely used in dishes ranging from meat dishes to vegetable sautés, pilafs, and soups. It pairs perfectly with garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and red meat.
Tomato Paste:
Tomato Paste is a concentrated source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant whose bioavailability increases when heated. This property supports heart health and may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer. It also contains Vitamin K and potassium. Its absorption is enhanced when consumed with olive oil. It pairs perfectly with onions, garlic, red meat, and legumes, adding depth and umami to dishes.
Pepper Paste:
Red Pepper Paste is a flavorful concentrate made from ripe red peppers. Its high Vitamin C content supports the immune system, while its antioxidant properties (carotenoids) protect cell health. The capsaicin it contains may boost metabolism. It is commonly used to add a unique aroma, especially in bulgur pilaf, meat dishes, and breakfast sauces.
Ketchup:
Tomato-based ketchup is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene is believed to support heart health and may offer protection against certain types of cancer. Notably, lycopene from cooked tomatoes is better absorbed by the body. It pairs perfectly with french fries, hamburgers, hot dogs, omelets, and various meat dishes.
Cumin:
Cumin is a powerful spice that supports digestion, reduces bloating, and stimulates digestive enzymes. Rich in iron, it possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It pairs excellently with legumes (lentils, chickpeas), red and white meats, vegetables, and yogurt-based sauces. Combined with coriander, turmeric, and chili, it creates deep flavors in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Garlic:
Garlic, thanks to its allicin compound, offers strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can boost the immune system, increasing resistance against illnesses. Furthermore, it contributes to cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and balance cholesterol levels. Widely used in traditional medicine, garlic is also known for its digestive support effects. An indispensable ingredient in meat dishes, vegetable sautés, and Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Pomegranate Syrup:
Pomegranate Molasses (Nar Ekşisi) is a traditional condiment made from concentrated pomegranate juice, offering a unique blend of sharp tanginess and subtle sweetness. Rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, it supports cell regeneration and can boost the immune system. It also contributes positively to digestive health. This versatile ingredient adds exceptional depth to salads, mezes like kısır and lentil balls, olive oil-based dishes, and meat marinades. It pairs beautifully with walnuts, fresh mint, and leafy greens.
Curly Lettuce:
Curly lettuce is a salad favorite, known for its refreshing crispness. Its high Vitamin K content supports bone health and aids blood clotting. Rich in Vitamin A, it contributes to eye health. The fibrous texture promotes digestion, while its high water content helps keep the body hydrated. It pairs excellently with olive oil, lemon, pomegranate molasses, cheese, and grilled meats.
Chili Pepper:
Red Pepper Flakes, beyond adding a unique heat to dishes, can help boost metabolism due to the capsaicin it contains. It also supports the body with its antioxidant properties and can benefit digestion. It pairs wonderfully with garlic, tomato, olive oil, and various meat dishes; it also adds depth to pasta and soups.
Lemon Juice:
Lemon juice, rich in Vitamin C, boosts immunity and supports collagen synthesis for skin health. Its citrate content may help prevent kidney stone formation. A natural antioxidant, it reduces inflammation. It aids digestion by stimulating liver bile production. Added to water, it offers a detoxifying effect. Pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, salads, soups, marinades, and desserts, adding a refreshing and flavorful touch.
Rosemary:
Rosemary, with its potent antioxidants (rosmarinic acid) and anti-inflammatory properties, supports brain health, potentially boosting memory and concentration. It aids digestion, can help alleviate muscle pain, and contributes to strengthening immunity. It pairs exceptionally well with lamb, chicken, potatoes, and root vegetables. It forms a fantastic duo with garlic, lemon, and thyme.
Lemon:
Lemon is a citrus fruit rich in Vitamin C, supporting the immune system and acting as a powerful antioxidant. Its citric acid stimulates bile production, aiding digestion and enhancing nutrient absorption. It contributes to the body's alkaline balance, supporting detoxification processes. Furthermore, it benefits skin health and may help prevent kidney stone formation. It pairs well with honey, ginger, mint, or olive oil.
Pickled Cucumber:
Gherkin pickle, with its fermented structure, contains probiotics that support gut health. Its vinegar content can help balance blood sugar, while its antioxidants protect the body against free radicals. It also provides electrolyte support through its mineral content. It's indispensable for meat dishes, sandwiches, and mezze platters. It also pairs wonderfully with french fries.
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